Asian and Pacific Islander Heritage

The United States Census Bureau projects that by the year 2050, there will be more than 40.6 million Asians living in this country, comprising 9.2 percent of the total US population.  That number may seem small if you live in San Francisco or other places with larger Asian and Pacific Islander populations, but it is a number that continues to rise.  This month, take a moment to look at what Asians and Pacific Islanders bring to the United States.

May was designated in 1992 as a month-long celebration of the contributions Asians and Pacific Islanders have made to the United States, called "Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month."  There is much to celebrate too!  Lot's of events here in San Francisco, but it isn't limited to celebrations here.  There are all kinds of events and celebrations and some of them are available online.  Go to http://asianpacificheritage.gov/ for some wonderful resources hosted by the Library of Congress.

Don't rely on stereotypes from books and movies.  Get to know your Asian and Pacific Islander neighbors and find out about their history and who they are.  We will all be better people when we share our heritage.